This velocity was selected since it is often used in training, representing http://www.selleckchem.com/products/Enzastaurin.html the maximum aerobic velocity that swimmers can maintain without accumulation of fatigue (approximately 30 min) (Olbrecht, 2000; Fernandes et al., 2010). Previous studies conducted in order to observe whether the hip accurately represents the intracycle CM profile in front crawl have been carried out at much higher intensities (Maglischo et al., 1987; Psycharakis and Sanders, 2009). As results, higher IVV values were expected due to a significant increase in both propulsive and drag forces (Schnitzler et al., 2010). In fact, Barbosa et al. (2006) found a linear relationship between IVV and energy cost, and, therefore, with velocity, in the front crawl.

In the current study, a 2D kinematical recording was implemented since it requires less digitizing time and has fewer methodological problems. In fact, the 2D approach is conceptually easier to relate to, and can yield acceptable results (Bartlett, 2007), being proper to evaluate numerous samples and to implement in field studies, particularly in the swimming club. Conversely, the 3D analysis is a very time-consuming process that requires complex analytical methods, what makes it difficult for coaches to use on a day-to-day basis (Psycharakis and Sanders, 2009). CM and hip presented similar mean values for both forward velocity and displacement. Such a result was expected once the CM is located in the hip region (Costill et al., 1987; Maglischo et al., 1987; Figueiredo et al., 2009).

In fact, nonetheless the mean error concerning the hip and CM displacement towards a slight tendency for a hip underestimation, the approximately 0 velocity mean error values indicate that the hip seems not to under or overestimate the CM velocity values. This is in line with the literature, as Maglischo et al. (1987) concluded that forward velocity of the hip can be a useful tool for diagnosing problems within stroke cycles. However, the values of RMS error and percentage of error evidence the opposite behaviour: although being of low magnitude, the error is higher regarding forward velocity (7.54%) than the displacement (3.24%). It is accepted that the RMS error should be considered preferably to the mean error, since the hip frequently underestimates or overestimates the CM due to differences in swimmers�� technique (negative errors cancelled by the positive ones), and because RMS is considered a conservative estimate of accuracy (Allard et al.

, 1995). Furthermore, high and very high positive correlation coefficients were found between the hip and the CM regarding horizontal swimming velocity and displacement, GSK-3 as seen in front crawl (Costill et al., 1987; Maglischo et al., 1987, Figueiredo et al., 2009), backstroke (Maglischo et al., 1987), breaststroke (Costill et al., 1987; Maglischo et al., 1987), and butterfly (Maglischo et al., 1987; Barbosa et al.